20 Facts HR Needs to Understand About Working with Millennials

Are you tired of hearing about working with millennials yet? I hope not, because this army of young employees will make up 50 percent of the U.S. workforce by 2030 (that's only 16 years out!).

Roughly speaking, the millennial generation was born anytime from the early '80s through the mid-'90s. Because this was a boom time for personal and work technology, you can expect that these young professionals are used to working in a digital (i.e., computer) environment.

But there's lots more to this group, and HR and benefits pros who really "get" millennials will have a distinct advantage in recruiting these workers.

Here are 20 facts about working with millennials — and 20 takeaways for HR pros — that are valuable to every organization with its eye toward growth:

1.) Sixty-eight percent would like to be personally called out for their efforts.HR takeaway: A public thank you makes their day.

2.) For their wins, 52 percent of millennials want individuals awards.HR takeaway: Group recognition may not fly.

3.) They're more miserly than their predecessors.HR takeaway: Because they save and invest more than gen X and baby boomers, retirement programs are a must.

4.) Millennials expect competitive benefits packages and competitive salaries.HR takeaway: In their eyes, compensation is more than a paycheck.

20.) When it comes to millennials; they want customizable benefits and will "shop" for an employer culture that fits their needs.HR takeaway: Fitting in has little appeal, and one size does not fit all.

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